Microbiologists vs. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists: Who Earns More?
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists out-earn Microbiologists by $15K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Microbiologists land at $87,990 and Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists at $103,410. The education gap is real: microbiologist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while medical scientists, except epidemiologist programs require doctoral or professional degree. Top-paying state for Microbiologists is Massachusetts ($122,350); for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists it's California ($136,990).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Microbiologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Microbiologists or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists earn more nationally. The median is $87,990 for Microbiologists versus $103,410 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists, a difference of $15K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Microbiologists or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists has the better 10-year outlook at 8.7% projected growth, compared to 4.1% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Microbiologists or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Microbiologists typically requires bachelor's degree. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists requires doctoral or professional degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Microbiologists get paid the most?
Massachusetts is the top-paying state for Microbiologists at $122,350/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Microbiologists vs. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Massachusetts, Microbiologists earn $122,350 vs. $128,210 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.